Static Fields

9. What further research is needed on the possible health effects of static fields?

9.1 Is further research needed on health effects of static electric fields?

9.2 Is further research needed on health effects of static magnetic fields?

9.1 Is further research needed on health effects of static electric fields?

There appears to be little benefit in continuing research into the effects of static electric fields on health. None of the studies conducted to date suggest any negative health effects, except for possible stress resulting from prolonged exposure to very small electric shocks. Furthermore significant exposure to static electric fields at home or at work is not very likely.

9.2 Is further research needed on health effects of static magnetic fields?

For static magnetic fields, research carried out to date has not been systematic and has often been performed without appropriate methodology and exposure information. Coordinated research programs are recommended as an aid to a more systematic approach.

Along with studies on cells, animals and humans, computer simulations can help understand the link between an external static magnetic field, the internal electric fields and induced currents in moving living tissues. Some models have been widely used in studies with time-varying electromagnetic fields such as those generated by powerlines. However, very little work has been done with static fields, and more refined models should be developed. More...